What is a Virus?
A computer virus is a type of malicious software (malware) that is designed to replicate itself and spread to other computers or devices. Just like a biological virus, a computer virus needs a host program to "live" in, and it can spread from one computer to another, often without the user knowing. The virus can attach itself to files, emails, or even programs, and when you open or run the infected item.
How Do Viruses Work?
Once activated, a virus can:
- Corrupt files: It can damage or destroy data, making files unreadable or unusable.
- Steal personal information: Viruses can collect sensitive data, such as login credentials, financial information, or personal documents.
- Slow down system performance: Viruses often consume system resources, causing your computer to become slow or unresponsive.
- Spread to other devices: Through email attachments, infected files, or network connections, viruses can spread from your computer to others.
- Cause system crashes: Some viruses can cause operating systems to crash or shut down unexpectedly, resulting in data loss.
How Can You Get a Virus?
- Opening email attachments from unknown senders or suspicious sources.
- Downloading files or software from unreliable websites.
- Using infected USB drives or external devices.
- Visiting unsafe or compromised websites.
- Clicking on suspicious links or pop-ups.
How to Protect Against Viruses:
- Be cautious with email attachments and links: Avoid opening attachments or clicking on links from unknown or suspicious sources.
- Avoid downloading files from untrusted sites: Stick to trusted websites and platforms for downloading software.
How Do I Know If My Computer Is Infected?
It’s not always easy to tell if your computer is infected with a virus, especially since viruses often run in the background without displaying obvious symptoms. However, there are several signs you can look out for that may indicate your computer is infected:
1. Slower Performance
- Your computer or programs take longer than usual to start or run.
- Files open slowly or freeze unexpectedly.
- Your internet browsing speeds are noticeably slower.
2. Unexplained Pop-ups or Ads
- You see an increased number of pop-up ads, even when you're not browsing the internet.
- Pop-ups or ads seem strange or irrelevant and appear on websites that don’t normally have them.
3. Crashing or Freezing
- Your computer crashes or freezes regularly, even when running basic programs or tasks.
- Programs or applications open and close on their own, or they refuse to start at all.
4. Suspicious Files or Programs
- You notice new files or programs on your system that you didn’t install or don’t recognize.
- The virus may install malicious software or spyware that you can't find or remove easily.
5. Increased Hard Drive Activity
- You hear the hard drive working overtime when you’re not actively using the computer, indicating that background processes may be running and consuming resources.
- The computer slows down even when no programs are open, as the virus is using system resources.
6. Unusual Network Activity
- Your internet connection seems unusually slow or unstable, even when you're not browsing or using apps.
- Data is being sent or received from your computer without your knowledge, which could indicate malware is sending your personal information to attackers.
7. Files or Programs Missing
- Files on your computer have gone missing, or you can’t open files that previously worked fine.
- Some files may be renamed, and some of your programs may become corrupted or inaccessible.
8. Strange Behavior (Unauthorized Changes)
- Programs or files that you didn’t initiate appear on your desktop.
- Your web browser’s homepage or settings change without your consent, or unfamiliar toolbars are added.